DPS recruits staff based on the APS merit principle, ensuring a fair and competitive process to identify the best candidate for each role. The selection process considers candidates’ skills, experience and abilities, using multiple assessment methods such as written applications, interviews and practical exercises. This approach ensures that our recruitment decisions are objective, and evidence based.

The merit-based assessment process is tailored to fit the job advertised and typically includes the following stages:

1. Application – Applicants submit a pitch outlining their qualifications, skills, experience and ability to perform the advertised role, with examples that match the job requirements, along with a resume
2. Shortlisting – The selection panel reviews all applications to identify candidates for further consideration.
3. Assessment – Shortlisted candidates may be asked to attend an interview or take part in further additional assessments. All shortlisted candidates go through the same assessments to ensure fair comparison. More details about the assessments will be shared with candidates moving forward after shortlisting.
4. Reference Checks – Following completion of any further assessments, referees are contacted to provide feedback relevant to the role. Typically, only candidates who have been rated as suitable have their referees contacted.

Timeframe

The selection process depends on the availability of the selection panel, applicants and referees. While DPS aim to complete the process as quickly as possible, unexpected delays may occur. The panel will endeavour to keep candidates up to date on the process and minimise delays where possible.

Feedback

Feedback is an important part of the process and is available to applicants for both ongoing and temporary DPS positions at any stage. You can request feedback by reaching out to the panel chair for the recruitment process. Please note that in some circumstances feedback may only be provided to applicants who were interviewed.

Applying through APSJobs and the DPS Careers Portal

View the current vacancies, including our temporary employment register

Current vacancies within DPS and the broader Australian Public Service (APS) are also advertised on APSJobs.

Further resources

Our Candidate Information Pack provides useful information to help guide candidates through the application process for vacancies within DPS.